This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.

According to the ancient Advaita philosophy, the morning has a special energetic quality to it - it's still, peaceful and enlightened in nature.

This makes it the perfect time to set intentions, connect with your inner spirit and meditate.

Creating a morning ritual incorporating some of these elements can help ensure you go out into the world feeling calm, centered and purposeful.

Ready to shake up your morning routine? Here are 11 inspiring ideas for your morning ritual. You might like to try mixing and matching your top three.

1. Consciously choose your first thought of the day.

When you wake up, does your mind automatically begin planning, worrying and ruminating about the day ahead?

Take back control by beginning your day with a short mantra or prayer - it will keep your mind calm and set the tone for your morning.

You may wish to say: Thank you for this beautiful new day. How can I serve the cause of love today?

2. Practice being present and mindful.

This is another great way to prevent your mind from automatically speeding up and churning like a washing machine.

Connect with the present moment by feeling the soft bedsheets against your skin; feeling your feet on the floor as you take your first steps; and listening for morning sounds around you.

3. Visualize your desires.

Spend a few moments visualizing your ideal day, or your grander vision for your dream life. You may even have a vision board to help you do this.

Feel the feeling of already having what you desire and give thanks in advance for it coming into your life.

4. Read inspirational material or quotes.

Positive writing and material has an energetic quality - reading it can make you feel lighter, happier and more liberated.

Have a stash of your favourite inspirational quotes, book passages or life truths on hand, so you can reflect on them when you need a reminder of the values you want to live by.

5. Write a gratitude journal.

Gratitude is one of life's sweet shortcuts to happiness. It turns what you have into enough, and attracts even more good things into your life.

A gratitude practice doesn't have to take long - simply write out three things you are grateful for. The trick is to be specific and use details. For example, rather than simply listing your partner, list something special and quirky about them that you love.

6. Meditate.

Meditation has so many benefits. It can clear your mind, strengthen your sense of inner peace, and connect you with your Higher Self - that wise part of you that carries all of the answers you seek.

Even five short minutes a day can have a positive impact on your life.

7. Move your body.

Doing a few simple yoga stretches can get your mind and body feeling awake and energised.

It also gets you in touch with your body and out of your mind for a few extra moments.

8. Write morning pages.

Grab a piece of paper and write 'stream-of-consciousness' style for a few minutes - write from your heart and soul without censoring or stopping.

It's a great way to get in touch with your true feelings and gain insight on any challenges you are facing.

9. Dance to a song.

Throw on a fun celebratory track like Celebrate by Kool & The Gang or Happy by Pharrell Williams and dance around your living room for a couple of minutes.

It can boost your mood and open up your light-hearted, playful side.

10. Thank the sun for rising.

We take the sun for granted like we take many blessings in our life for granted.

When you thank the sun for rising each morning, you remind yourself of all of the beauty in the world and the gift of life itself.

11. Set an intention.

Intentions can create your day and your destiny. Each morning, choose an intention to guide your thoughts and actions for the day.

For example, your intention could be: to enjoy simple pleasures; to practice unconditional love; to have more fun; or to relax and trust in life more.

Elyse is a writer, life coach and happiness teacher at NotesOnBliss.com. She teaches people to align with their inner spirit, design a life they love, and expand their happiness and inner peace. For updates and inspiration, sign up now.